A third of 14-year-olds fail to reach target in key subjects

A third of 14-year-olds in England are failing to reach expected levels in English, maths and science as school standards continue to fall well short of official targets, it was revealed yesterday.

Government figures showing mixed results - maths faltering, English up after a drop last year, and a rise for science - were hailed by ministers as evidence of "unprecedented improvements" over the past decade. But they expressed disappointment at a fall in writing standards.

The percentage of 14-year-olds reaching level five or above on their national curriculum maths tests fell by one point to 76%, according to the Department for Children, Schools and Families. English standards returned to the 74% of two years ago and science went up to 73%, the highest ever. In information and communication technology tests there was a rise of three points to 74%. Targets set in 2004 were for 85% of pupils to reach at least level five in maths and English this year, and 80% in science.

The percentage of pupils achieving level five in all three core subjects was unchanged at 67%. Boys' reading results improved.

The Tories' education spokesman, Nick Gibb, said: "The results confirm Ofsted's view that half of secondary schools are performing at a level that is 'not good enough'."

However, Jim Knight, the schools minister, said: "The overall trend remains upwards and there have been dips in the past that have been quickly reversed."